KDE’s Office of Special Education and Early Learning Transition Education Unit welcomed 116 educators from across the Commonwealth to the second KY Transition 360 for Educators Summer Institute, a professional learning experience designed to strengthen preparation for postsecondary transition and improve outcomes for students with disabilities. Photo submitted
The Kentucky Department of Education’s (KDE’s) Office of Special Education and Early Learning Transition Education Unit (TEU) welcomed 116 educators from across the Commonwealth to the second KY Transition 360 for Educators Summer Institute, a professional learning experience designed to strengthen preparation for postsecondary transition and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.
The Summer Institute marked the launch of the 2026-2027 program cohort. Participants were selected through a competitive application process.
Postsecondary transition services support students with disabilities in preparing for life after high school, including education, employment and independent living. KDE’s KY Transition 360 initiative focuses on helping districts implement evidence-based practices that improve these outcomes.
“The Summer Institute is about building both knowledge and systems,” said Magan Gaddis, TEU coaching coordinator. “We want educators to leave not only with a deeper understanding of effective transition practices, but also with a clear plan and the support needed to implement that work in their districts.”
Participants explored the Predictor Implementation Self-Assessment (PISA), a tool developed by the National Technical Assistance Center on Transition: The Collaborative. Through this process, they analyzed district transition data, assessed the implementation of evidence-based predictors of post-school success and developed action plans tailored to the needs of their schools and communities.
Participants who were involved in the program during the previous year also shared their experiences implementing these plans, highlighting successes, lessons learned and challenges encountered while putting evidence-based transition practices into action.
“Quality time with other educators and leaders surrounding the transition work in the state is invaluable to promoting and achieving student success,” said Charles Clark, a high school principal from Fairview Independent Schools.
The Summer Institute brought together educators from a wide range of roles, including special education and general education teachers, administrators, counselors, instructional assistants, career and technical education educators and employment specialists. By engaging multiple perspectives, the institute promotes shared ownership of transition planning and encourages collaboration across programs and departments.
Throughout the school year, participants will receive ongoing coaching and technical assistance from the TEU as they implement their action plans and monitor progress. Participants returning to the program for a consecutive year will continue their learning through a community of practice focused on leadership, collaboration and systems change.
Additional support provided through KY Transition 360 for Educators includes professional learning opportunities, coaching and resources designed to help districts build sustainable systems that improve transition services for students with disabilities.
Participants left the Summer Institute with more than ideas – they left with a clear plan, ongoing support and a network of colleagues across Kentucky working toward the shared goal of improving outcomes for students with disabilities. KDE plans to continue expanding KY Transition 360, with future opportunities for educators to engage in both in-person and virtual learning throughout the school year.
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